Chopard L.U.C Qualité Fleurier Version 4 Review

Kong · 2013-09-08T19:22:59Z

Explore Chopard L.U.C Qualité Fleurier (QF) models, from early versions to the latest. Kong details QF certification rigor and design evolution.

Kong

WPS member · Chopard forum

25 replies12922 views1 photos

Kong, a long-time L.U.C enthusiast, shares his personal insights on the Qualité Fleurier (QF) certification, describing watches bearing this mark as "Precise, Predictable, and Practical." He delves into the rigorous testing process required for the FQF (Fondation Qualité Fleurier) certification, highlighting its strict precision standards. Kong also presents a chronological overview of four L.U.C QF models, culminating in the then-latest version, emphasizing its refined design and practical features.

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A long friend of L.U.C started with some interesting acronym for 'QF' - Quite Fantastic, Quintessential Fun, Quest Fulfilled in a recent post. Indeed relevant.

What other descriptors to describe the QF (Qualité Fleurier) ?

After wearing for several years, I would surmise in three words - Precise, Predictable and Practical.

As most of L.U.C friends know, being certified FQF (Fondation Qualité Fleurier) is not a simple matter. It takes a longer development time, several iterations of fine tuning for a watch to pass the arduous tests. The last test is extremely challenging and dynamic, the full watch, will be placed in a specially constructed machine with real time monitoring, to simulate the watch as if being worn by an active owner for 24 hours (the profile is attached at the end of this post). The watch is considered pass and certified FQF if it maintains precision rate 0 to +5 seconds per day. It is half the allowable tolerance of the COSC ( -4 to +6 seconds/day) in the positive, right-side of the specifications. A very important and thoughtful point, the consistent daily positive gain will keep the timekeeping runs faster, thus ensuring the wearer always be earlier for appointments - extremely relevant if living or traveling in countries with accurate train system. That's for precise and predictable part.

For the practical perspective, the main one is no date. As I progress in age, my eye-sight tends to slowly deteriorate and unable to read the date. The date is of no use, the consolation is fast adjustment without having to bother about the date-adjustment, and also a prettier dial without a puncture hole

This post also consists of the latest version of the L.U.C QF model, and some details of the FQF Fleuritest.

To start off, the first version ...

Version 1 of L.U.C QF Model

Version 2 of L.U.C QF Model

(Credit : CaliforniaJed)
Version 3 of L.U.C QF Model, more avant-garde design with cut-out dial.

The 4th version of the L.U.C QF launched last year, back to classical design yet contemporary ...

18K 5N Rose gold case remains at 39mm diameter. Thickness 8.92mm.

Clearly marked 'QF' on the dial, which previously not. New logo, 'L.U. CHOPARD' is printed to differentiate the L.U.C Series among the Chopard range of watches. A good move.

Hour-chapter ring was removed. Somehow the dial now looks cleaner, uncluttered.

The signature soldered lugs retained.

At this angle, could observe the subtle finishing on the dial with graining radiating out from the L.U. CHOPARD logo.

Sapphire caseback with QF logo engraved displaying the well-decorated Calibre L.U.C 9.96 ( renamed to L.U.C 96.09-L).
QF logo is also stamped on one of the bridges.

Limited production unit number has raised from 250 to 300 pieces ( as shown in the caseback engraving).

Solid 18K ardillion buckle with brown alligator strap.

Past & Present ...

After seeing four versions, which dial design appeal to you?

Kong

For reference ...

FQF Video, some part shows the testings process ...

The Fleuritest Machine test profile

A video of the Fleuritest machine unning, recorded during a visit to the testing facility of FQF....

Related Reads :

1) First Visit to Fleurier Quality Foundation 2008

2) Second Visit to Fleurier Quality Foundation 2009 with PuristS-On-Tour

This message has been edited by Kong on 2013-09-08 20:32:29

Key Points from the Discussion

The fourth version of the L.U.C QF is considered the best due to its classic, elegant, timeless, and refined design, offering a restrained gentleman's timepiece previously missing from the QF line. The use of indices instead of numerals avoids font debates and truncated markers, contributing to its near-perfect proportions.
The latest QF model is praised for its stunning aesthetics, particularly the movement, case, and lugs. The dial markers, reminiscent of Patek, JLC, and Vacheron, are a favorite, and the absence of numerals eliminates debates over dial orientation or truncated elements. The signature QF hands are also a key design element.
Chopard's L.U.C series, starting with the 1.96, prioritized practicality like extended power reserve. The double-barrel mainspring in 1997 and the subsequent 9-day power reserve in the L.U.C 1.98 were advanced for their time, ensuring watches continued running after a weekend off the wrist.
The L.U.C QF Version 4 is seen as a perfect choice for collectors seeking a design that is both upbeat and daring, yet maintains conservative lines, offering a 'high-tech conservative' aesthetic distinct from more traditional options like Calatrava or Patrimony.
While SuperLuminova offers practicality for low-light legibility, there's a debate regarding its suitability for classic watches and its long-term aesthetic impact. Some collectors prefer its absence for a more classic and potentially longer-lasting appearance.
The latest QF model, despite its classical appearance, is far from boring due to its intricate details, making it a well-executed piece that warrants an in-person viewing.

The Discussion

CaliforniaJed

Sep 8, 2013

Honestly, I find it stunning in every respect, and utterly irresistible. Of course i love the movement, and the case/lugs. These markers on the dial are favorites of mine and remind me of similar markers from Patek, JLC, and Vacheron. I like that there are no numerals on the dial, so that there is no debate over a radial flip, or truncated markers. And I like that Chopard used the hands that are by now an essential element of the QF models. Impossible to say which version I like the best, but I

Kong

Sep 8, 2013

For practicality, SuperLuminova coated indices and hands are great for low-light reading. However, for classic and perhaps longevity, I feel the SuperLuminova should not be there. What are your thoughts? Oh! Jed... the wrist with Version 3 is yours :-P (I missed placing the credit... will do now) Kong

CaliforniaJed

Sep 8, 2013

particularly when subtly integrated into markers the way they are in the QF. I don't think that presence is a logevity issue the way Tritium is, but I haven't given that much thought. No need for a photo credit, Kong! I was simply making fun of my own hairy wrist! Best, CaliforniaJed

amanico

Sep 8, 2013

Nice post, Kong! If I had to chose only one, the open dial would be the one. It has something original I like a lot. Best, Nicolas

KIH

Sep 9, 2013

.. the best version ever. I would instantly move my finger to grab it to handle.... Wow.... I can't wait to meet it in person. Very, very nice. One for many people who like classic look and super engineered inside. NIce. Ken

marcelo

Sep 9, 2013

like the PP Calatrava and even the nice VC Patrimony (hand wound). Gorgeous! ;) Marcelo

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